The purpose of this policy is to ensure compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and protect the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI) collected, stored, and transmitted through the website www.theoppcenter.net
Collection and Use of PHI: Collection: The Diversion Center will only collect PHI necessary for the provision of treatment services and other authorized purposes. The collection of PHI will be done in accordance with HIPAA regulations and with the knowledge and consent of the individuals involved.
PHI will only be used for the purposes explicitly authorized by individuals, as permitted by law, or as required for the provision of treatment services. The Opportunity Center will not use PHI for marketing or other unrelated purposes without obtaining the individual’s explicit consent.
The Opportunity Center will implement administrative safeguards to protect PHI, including designating a Security Officer, conducting regular risk assessments, providing workforce training on HIPAA policies and procedures, and maintaining written policies and procedures.
The Opportunity Center will implement physical safeguards to protect PHI, including securing electronic systems and devices containing PHI, limiting physical access to areas where PHI is stored, and implementing policies for the disposal of PHI.
The Opportunity Center will implement technical safeguards to protect PHI, including encryption of electronic PHI during transmission, using strong passwords and authentication mechanisms, regularly updating software and systems, and maintaining firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
The Opportunity Center will make reasonable efforts to limit the disclosure of PHI to the minimum necessary for the intended purpose, in accordance with HIPAA requirements.
The Opportunity Center will enter into written agreements with business associates who may have access to PHI, outlining their responsibilities to safeguard PHI and comply with HIPAA regulations.
The Opportunity Center recognizes and will respect individuals’ rights regarding their PHI, including the right to access, amend, and request restrictions on the use and disclosure of their PHI. Procedures will be in place to facilitate the exercise of these rights.
In the event of a breach of unsecured PHI, The Opportunity Center will follow the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule requirements, including promptly notifying affected individuals, the Department of Health and Human Services, and, if necessary, the media.
This policy will be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure compliance with changing regulations and best practices. Any updates or changes will be communicated to relevant staff and made available on the website.
Individuals may file complaints regarding The Opportunity Center’s HIPAA compliance with the Privacy Officer or with the Office for Civil Rights. The process for filing complaints and reporting violations will be clearly explained on the website.
Any workforce member who violates this HIPAA policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, in accordance with The Opportunity Center’s disciplinary policies and applicable laws and regulations.